I Feel the Need...

(Warning: Before you read any further you should know...this post was very difficult to write, and a little unusual for me...)

Despite all of the excitement over the last couple of weeks (maybe because of it) I feel the need to sign off for a little while. 

It's so hard because I really wanted to participate in the new Bloggy Giveaway, and I look forward each week to Living Well, and Thankful Thursday...they are like lifelines to me.  I also had a couple of posts I was working on about my dear, sweet Valley Girl, and a humbling award from Susan... but it will all have to wait.  My life is a bit (okay, a lot) chaotic right now, and I need to take time to reflect, and hopefully, to rejuvenate. 

I know it may sound weird, because I always try to be so positive and uplifting here at Truly Captivating, but the truth is I am tired.  There is so much going on right now, that I haven't been doing anything (nothing...no thing) well.  My house is a wreck (has been for weeks, which is TOTALLY NOT like me), my relationships are strained, my business is sporadic at best, and I seem to be failing miserably at achieving all the goals I have set for myself this year, including and especially, my quiet time with Jesus...(and it's only January!!) 

I know this is "brutal honesty", and I apologize for that, but one thing I never want to be accused of is being "fake" or hypocritical.  No "posing" here.

That being said, I need your prayers.  I am really having a hard time...

I feel like a failure.  Failing my husband... my children... my friends... my ministries... and most definitely, my Lord.  (You are probably thinking, "Man, where is this coming from??  I had no idea!".  Trust me, it's been brewing for a while...and I just can't hide it any longer.) 

I have always been an "overachiever" and extremely critical of myself.  It's really hard not to be "in control", or feel like I have any sense of control over my life, my self, right now.  God has been teaching me so much lately, about His Church, and what it can/should be to reach out to those who are hurting, broken, and detached from His love.  Maybe that is part of the burden...  I hurt so deeply for those precious souls who feel helpless, and hopeless; those that are wandering...wondering...

But how can I help them, if I am not whole?  How can I shine the light of Christ when I have let circumstances, and my own raw emotions, become an obstacle to my own Source of light and strength?

There are also some "issues" from my past that continue to rear their ugly little heads.  No matter how many times I Break Free...they seem to be always lurking...waiting to ensnare me with their lies.  I would be lying if I said that somewhere deep down, that is not part of this... it always is...

I need to take a few days (hopefully not too long, but we'll see...) to rest.

28 Come to Me, all you who labor and are heavy-laden and overburdened, and I will cause you to rest. [I will ease and relieve and refresh your souls.] 29 Take My yoke upon you and learn of Me, for I am gentle (meek) and humble (lowly) in heart, and you will find rest (relief and ease and refreshment and recreation and blessed quiet) for your souls. 30 For My yoke is wholesome (useful, good--not harsh, hard, sharp, or pressing, but comfortable, gracious, and pleasant), and My burden is light and easy to be borne.

Matthew 11:28-30 (Amplified Bible)

I'm not very good at resting...especially when I am keyed up, and strung out over all that is going on in my life.  But one thing (well actually, two things) I know... I can either do ALL things through Christ, and His strength, or I can do NOTHING without Him. 

So that being said, I need to plug back into the Source.  I need to crawl up in His lap, and ask Him to forgive me for leaving HIM out of HIS plans for my life. I need to love on Him, and allow Him to love on me.  I need to admit that I am helpless without him, and that HE and HE alone deserves ALL THE CONTROL over my life.  I need to let go, and let "Jesus take the wheel". He is my only reason for being...He is my life, my strength, my all.

Maybe I haven't discouraged too many of you with this "whiny" post. I apologize for unloading all of this... but I felt I needed to be real.   I hope you will all remember me in your prayers, as I remember each of you.  I will miss you... but hopefully, when I return, I will be stronger, and more in love with Jesus than ever!! Thank you all for listening, praying, and caring. You are all so dear to my heart and precious to me!

Not to be Out-done

Well, I couldn't let KISA out-do me with the music on his blog, so I had to add this song to my playlist.  (Scroll down to bottom if music isn't playing...)

I am posting the lyrics because they are so relevant to our "announcement" and to what Jesus has called us to do here in Florence, SC.

Desperation leads us here
Leads us here
Illumination meets us here
Meets us here
Revelation brings us here
Brings us here
Restoration frees us here
Frees us here
And I don't want to leave
I don't want to leave this place
No, I don't want to leave
I never want to leave this place
CHORUS
It's so amazing
Your unchanging love
Simply amazing
Never changing love
Love, love a revolutionary love
Reparation leads us here
Leads us here
Liberation meets us here
Meets us here
Jubilation brings us here
Brings us here
Higher elevation frees us here
Frees us here
And I don't want to leave
I don't want to leave this place
No, I don't want to leave
I never want to leave this place
Chorus x2
Your revolutionary love
Your revolutionary love, love, love
You're a revolution I want to be
Revolutionary
You're a revolution I want to be
Revolutionary
You're a revolution I want to be
Love, love, love
Revolutionary love

Revolutionary Love Lyrics
Artist(Band):David Crowder Band

More than anything, the desire of our hearts - the mission of our church - is to be revolutionary, and show others the "Revolutionary Love" of Jesus!

The Scoop: This Just In...

For those of you waiting on the "Big Announcement"...wait no more!!

Chris has finally posted it!

And just so you know...he really is a man of his word. He drug his sick little self out of the bed because he PROMISED to have it out to you all today. (I had to help him with it a little because he got woozy trying to type, and had to go lay down.) Now that's what I call dedication!!

So, now you know... and "knowing is half the battle...GI JOE!!!" ;-)

Please keep us and "Revolution" in your prayers!! Thanks!

Oh yeah, and be sure to check out the music on Chris' blog. For him to post a song is HUGE...he hates music on blogs!!! (See why we complete each other? ;-)) You may have to scroll down to get the "full effect".

Sick Day...

Well, after having a wonderful weekend, the bad news is it's Monday! (I hate Mondays!!!) But the bad thing about this particular Monday is that two-fifths of the "Fab Five Reeders" are in the bed sick!

Chris has been up since 2:30 with a nasty stomach bug, and is now quarantined in our bedroom resting. Then after calling her to wake up, Emilee walked in the living room this morning crying with a headache and a sore throat. I checked her temp to "prove to her" that she was not sick enough to stay home. Wouldn't you know, she had fever! Now, she is also bedridden for the day.
The boys are both fighting colds, but they are at school...for now.
So, if you have a minute, please say a prayer...we could really use it!!

Friday Five

1. "Hey baby, it's COLD OUTSIDE"!!! Just sent the Princess and the Jedi off to school all bundled up. With the wind chill it feels like 15 degrees! WOW, are we still in SC??? To tell you the truth, I like the cold...and I would love it even more if we could get some of that WHITE STUFF to play in!!! (I know ValleyGirl, I know...you think I am CRAZY!! I probably would, too...if I were in your snow shoes!)

2. We had a wonderful time at the Church Planting Experience yesterday. A bit like drinking water from a fire hose, but VERY EXCITING, and we met some GREAT people! Can't wait to "do lunch" with a few of them in the coming weeks. God is doing BIG things in our hearts and lives, and we covet your prayers during this time of planning and preparation.

3. My Mama kept Sam for us to go to the training (Thanks, Nana!!), and called Wed. night to ask if she could "have the baby for the weekend". This means I HAVE THE DAY OFF! Man!! Whatever shall I do with myself??? (I'll probably end up cleaning house...so much for a "day off"! ;-))

4. We had a wonderful conversation last night with some dear friends, who may actually become partners with us in this "church planting adventure"!!! Thanks so much for the time you guys (you know who you are!), and for taking such good care of Em and Jake for us, until we could get home!!! I also want to thank some of our "newer" dear friends for taking time out to call (just to leave an encouraging message on our machine) and email words of encouragement. (You know who you are, too!!)

5. Just in case you haven't caught on to the excitement in my heart from reading #s 1-4, I'll leave you with this: A BIG ANNOUNCEMENT is coming (no...I'm NOT pregnant!)...

Stay tuned!!! ;-)

Thankful Thursday - The Voice of Truth

"Teach me Your way, O Lord, and I will walk in your truth;  Give me and undivided heart that I may fear your name". (Psalm 86:11)

"O God, send forth your light and your truth to my life.  Let them guide me; let them bring me to Your holy mountain, to the place where You dwell".  (Psalm 43:3)

"Father, this moment I am choosing the way of truth.  I want to set my heart on Your laws. (Psalm 119: 30) Help me to choose the way of truth the rest of my days".

"Do not allow anything to snatch the word of truth from my mouth, O Lord, For I have put my hope in Your laws". (Psalm 119:43)

"Lord God, You are near to all who call on You, to all who call on You in truth".  (Psalm 145:18)

Oh,what I would do to have
the kind of faith it takes
To climb out of this boat I'm in
Onto the crashing waves
To step out of my comfort zone
Into the realm of the unknown
Where Jesus is,
And he's holding out his hand
But the waves are calling out my name
and they laugh at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The waves they keep on telling me
time and time again
"Boy, you'll never win,
you'll never win."
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
the voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
and the voice of truth says "this is for my glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
Oh, what I would do
to have the kind of strength it takes
To stand before a giant
with just a sling and a stone
Surrounded by the sound
of a thousand warriors
shaking in their armor
Wishing they'd have had the strength to stand
But the giant's calling out
my name and he laughs at me
Reminding me of all the times
I've tried before and failed
The giant keeps on telling me
time and time again
"Boy you'll never win,
you'll never win."
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
the voice of truth says "do not be afraid!"
and the voice of truth says "this is for my glory"
Out of all the voices calling out to me
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth
but the stone was just the right size
to put the giant on the ground
and the waves they don't seem so high
from on top of them looking down
i will soar with the wings of eagles
when I stop and listen to the sound of Jesus
singing over me
But the voice of truth tells me a different story
The voice of truth says do not be afraid
And the voice of truth says this is for my glory
Out of all the voices calling out to me (calling out to me)
I will choose to listen and believe (I will choose to listen and believe)
I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth

Voice Of Truth Lyrics
Artist(Band):Casting Crowns

I am thankful for His truth!!! It never changes!! I can bank on it!! It gives me the strength I need to get through any circumstance that may come my way.  Even when it's hard...  I know that He is ultimately working everything for my good, and for HIS glory!!! Even when I hear other voices calling out to me...trying to tell me differently..."I will choose to listen and believe the voice of truth"!!

Is there something in particular that you would like to give thanks for today?? Be sure to stop by Sting My Heart, and join with us this Thankful Thursday!!

Live Well Wednesday

Last week, when I was sharing with my accountability partner, I began to tell her about my lack of motivation, and my frustration at being unsuccessful thus far in my weight loss journey.  She suggested that I pause for a while...

There is A LOT going on in my life right now, and it's hard to stay focused on my individual goals.  She suggested that I not try to "lose" weight right now...but just to maintain.  At first I wasn't sure about it (I mean, isn't maintenance what we do when we have MET OUR GOALS???), but then I thought, "Hey, what I have been doing isn't working, so why not try a different angle??".  So this past week, I have still been drinking water (though not meeting my "quota" of eight glasses every day) and been more conscientious about making healthier choices (especially at breakfast) without actually "counting calories"...(or points...or whatever...)

IT WORKED!!  When I weighed this morning, I had not lost any weight, but I HAD NOT GAINED EITHER!!!  And strangely, after all this time whining about not losing, it felt good...really, really good!  I actually set out to accomplish something, and DID IT!!  Thank you Priscilla for the great advice, and thank you JESUS for the strength to persevere!

This week, I am not going to change much, but to try and add some exercise.  I know this will help with weight-loss, but that isn't my "main most" motive at the moment.  I am hoping that it will help with the energy levels.  I have seen an improvement in energy and stamina since I have incorporated the "healthy breakfast" element, but with all that is going on right now, I still feel drained at times, and need a way to "let off steam".  So I am going to get back to my "praise walking" this week, at least three days, at thirty minutes each.  After all, what better way to get refreshed and renewed than walking with Jesus!!  I am charging up the mp3 player as we speak.

...and I guess I better warn the neighbors!!! ;-)

The Scoop - Taking Tests, Making Assessments

Last week I mentioned that I have been learning a lot about myself lately.  I really have.  Ever since I read Chazown: A Different Way to See Your Life, by Craig Groeschel, I have been in a period of self-discovery.  That has continued throughout our process of completing a leadership assessment for the SCBC as part of our application for the Church Multiplication Program. 

Although I took a Spiritual Gifts Survey a couple of years ago for our church, I completed one at the Chazown website, and another as part of the application process.  Here is what I learned.

According to the PLACE Assessment (SCBC) my top three areas for spiritual gifting are:

• Shepherding
• Discernment
• Exhortation

According to the other site, these are my top five:

• Music
• Shepherding
• Faith
• Hospitality
• Knowledge

As you can see there is only one "common denominator" between the results of the two tests.  What does that mean?  I have NO IDEA! ;-)  But, I can see aspects of myself in each of these.

I also took a personality test, the results of which were OVERWHELMINGLY "sanguine".  I took a very similar test last year, and blogged about it (at my old blog).  This is what I said...

Chris brought home two copies of a Personality Test last week as part of his Men's Fraternity Class at church.  His assignment was to fill out one for himself, and one for me.  Of the four personality types presented in the survey (Sanguine/Choleric/Melancholy/Phlegmatic), I am overwhelmingly sanguine (65% in that category).  The word sanguine actually refers to blood which is life.  So this type of personality is considered "lively and cheerful".  When I looked at the "strengths" of this personality type, I was like..."Wow!  That's me! How wonderful!".  On the contrary, the "weaknesses" weren't so pretty.  "Gets angry easily, Undisciplined, Fickle and Forgetful, Dominates Conversations"...those of you who know me well are laughing right now!  Let me tell you...THE TRUTH HURTS! 

Then again, we all have strengths and weaknesses...

So what is the point??? Why should we learn these things about ourselves??

I think the "point" (pun definitely intended) might be revealed in this email I received from my Mama this morning (don't you just LOVE God's awesome timing???)...

Parable of the Pencil
The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside, just before putting him into the box. "There are 5 things you need to know," he told the pencil, "before I send you out into the world. Always remember them and never forget,and you will become the best pencil you can be. One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in Someone's hand. Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you'll need it to become a better pencil. Three: You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make. Four: The most important part of you will always be what's inside. And Five: On every surface you are used on, you must leave your mark. No matter what the condition, you must continue to write." The pencil understood and promised to remember, and went into the box with purpose in its heart.
Now replace the pencil with YOU. Always remember them and never forget, and you will become the best person you can be. One: You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in God's hand. And allow other human beings to access you for the many gifts you possess. Two: You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, by going through various problems, but you'll need it to become a stronger person. Three: You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make. Four: The most important part of you will always be what's on the inside. And Five: On every surface you walk through, you must leave your mark. No matter what the situation, you must continue to do your duties. By understanding and remembering, let us proceed with our life on this earth having a meaningful purpose in our heart.
The Bible says that God is the potter and we are the clay. He is the master and we are the servants. With God's leading and the still small voice of the Holy Spirit guiding our steps, we are made strong and can do great things with our life. Allow this parable on the pencil to encourage you to know that you are a special person and only you can fulfill the purpose to which you were born to accomplish.  Never allow yourself to get discouraged and think that your life is insignificant and cannot make a change. - Author Unknown -

"My Soul Desire is to be used, an empty vessel longing to be filled by you...My Soul Desire is to serve You Lord.  To do Your perfect will, to work each day and build Your Kingdom, this is My Soul Desire"....Oh Lord, I want to be used by you!!  Mold me, shape me, sharpen me into the woman that you created me to be!  Help me to leave my mark in such a way that points others to you, so that they too might discover your divine plan and purpose for their lives, and allow you to use them, too... For Your Honor, Your Glory, and Your Fame!! It's all about You, Jesus...and in Your Precious Name I pray...Amen.

Friday Five

1.  There's a great conference coming up in March for church leaders. Check out this post to find out all about it. Warning: attending this conference may change your life...and it WILL rock your world!!

2.  I made this blog roll!! How cool!!! (Thank you, KISA!!) It's a rotating blog roll, so just in case you are skeptical...I posted a web shot for proof. Look right! ;-) Speaking of blog rolls, I wanted to mention two "new" blogs (not really new...but new to my Google Reader Subscriptions) that I am really enjoying these days. I'll Take It Lord...All You Have to Give and History In the Making. Two very different blogs, with somewhat different subject matter, but both are excellent!

3.  My father-in-love, baby sister, and little girl all had/have birthdays this week!! HAPPY BIRTHDAY and MUCH LOVE to you all!!

4.  We're headed to the beach tomorrow (for the night) to celebrate Emilee's birthday. We made this decision during all of the "unseasonably warm" weather we've been having, and wouldn't you know...this will be the COLDEST weekend yet!  Oh well, even if we don't do anything but cuddle up in the hotel room together and watch movies, it will at least be a change of scenery!! We're all looking forward to it!

5.  You're all invited to South Florence Baptist Church this Sunday to celebrate with us, as we dedicate our brand new sanctuary to the Lord!! We are so excited...the day has finally come!! We've all been praying, giving, and working so hard over the last several years (months, weeks, and days) to prepare for this. So if you are in the neighborhood, please stop by. It's sure to be a blessing!

Thankful Thursday - My Princess

It's hard to believe that it was eight years ago, this Saturday, that my life completely and totally changed...never to be the same again...

On January 19, 2000  the Lord "graced" me (her middle name) with the most precious gift of my first child...my beloved daughter.  I am so thankful for her!  For her beauty...her grace...her tender heart.  She is one of the most determined little souls I  have ever met, and is also extremely creative, intelligent, and generous. 

I thank God that He has called her name, called her out, and that she has surrendered to His love.  I can't wait to see what plans He has in store for her, as she continues to grow in His nurture and admonition.  She is my beautiful little girl...and I am in awe that God has granted me this most wonderful privilege of being her mother. 

Happy Birthday, Mama's Princess!!! I love you more than you will ever know!

What are you thankful for today?? Head on over to Iris' Sting My Heart blog and let us know!!

Live Well Wednesday

Well...

Well, well, well...

Not exactly sure how, but since my last weigh in (two weeks ago) I have lost three pounds!!
I say I am not "exactly" sure because even though I have made several decisions about lifestyle changes, I am taking things very slowly and gradually. I feel that part of my challenges with success at weight loss (among other things) is that I take on too much, too soon, and end up quitting before I can really get started. So this past week I have been more concientious about drinking water and snacking mindlessly, but to say that I have completely changed my eating habits would be inaccurate. However, every little bit counts right???

This week, I am incorporating a nutritious breakfast into the formula. I know that breakfast helps to kickstart your metabolism, and by eating nutritiously, I will be giving my body more energy to begin my day.

I am struggling a lot lately with lack of energy and sluggishness, for now calling it "winter blahs", but if I don't see some improvements, I will probably consult my doctor. I will also begin taking a daily multi-vitamin to help with energy and stamina (actually started that this morning). I hope to begin a walking routine as well, but like I said previously...I am taking things slowly...incorporating change one step at a time.

WOW!

Because God always has the answers to all of our prayerful questions...

...even before we ask....

Look what I found, just a few minutes after posting The Scoop for today....

Thank you Jay...

...and THANK YOU JESUS!! For reminding me...it's ALL ABOUT YOU, and that you are molding me and shaping me throughout this process. Thank you for breaking me, and disturbing me...

now I beg for you to move, for you to break through...and use me like never before!!!

The Scoop: Or Lack Thereof...

I had hoped to use this post today to fill you in on several things I have discovered about myself throughout the last several weeks of completing spiritual gift surveys, personality tests, leadership strength assessments, and so on. The fact of the matter is I AM SWAMPED!!

I have a house to clean, meals to plan, carpooling to run, and various other tasks that need to be addressed ASAP on my "to-do list". And because I have made a "non-resolution" to be a better manager of my home, and another one to use my time more effectively, I am going to have to save that post for next week.

I would like to ask for continued prayer for Baby Rachel. She had surgery yesterday. I would also like to ask that you remember me. As exciting and exhilarating as this whole process is, there is still much uncertainty...and in case you haven't figured out by now, "uncertainty" is not my strong suit. I am trying to be strong, and rest in the arms of Jesus, but my flesh keeps wanting to take things out of His hands and MAKE things happen. I know I cannot do that, which compounds my frustration. Some days it seems that I am holding on by a thread...so could you agree with me in prayer, in order to make that cord stronger? I'd really appreciate it!!

Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up. Again, if two lie together, then they have heat: but how can one be warm alone? And if one prevail against him, two shall withstand him; and a threefold cord is not quickly broken. (Ecclesiastes 4:9-12)

Friday Five - 3 in 1

No,  I am not talking about Mary Kay's awesome TimeWise 3N1 Cleanser, although I know where you can get some if you need it! ;-)

I am actually referring to THREE posts in ONE, since this has been a CRAZY week schedule-wise, and I haven't had a chance to blog since Tuesday (please continue to keep Baby Rachel and her family in your prayers...no word yet as to the test results).

So, without further ado...

1.  Live Well Wednesday:  I posted last week about embracing change, and I am really trying.  Here are my wellness goals (notice I didn't say resolutions...I am with Tammi on that one!) for 2008...

1. Spend time with Jesus every.single.day. 
2. Learn to take compliments with grace and acceptance.
3. Improve time management by creating a weekly plan sheet each week.
4. Follow this plan; Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
5. Drink more water.
6. Laugh more!
7. Play with my children each day.
8. Spend more quality time with my KISA each week. (Can you say "Date Night"?!)

 

2.  Thankful Thursdays:  Some of you may recognize this little mantra, but it has come to mind a lot lately. I am not only thankful that I learned it (thank you Miss Beth!!), but that it is the ABSOLUTE TRUTH, and I can stake my life on it!!  I am thankful that...

• God is who He says He is.
• God can do what He says He will do.
• I am who God says I am.
• I can do ALL THINGS through Christ!
• His WORD is ALIVE and ACTIVE in me!!!!

 

 

3.  Speaking of God's word, and my desire to spend time in it daily, I wanted to share this Bible Reading Guide that I am using to help with that goal.  This website is also a great resource if you just aren't sure how to get started (Thanks, Perry!).

4.  And, since I mentioned goals, let me just say that this post by Mark Batterson is a wonderful read, and highly inspirational.  I plan to try and put these into practice!

5.  And last but not least, I am very glad (albeit EXTREMELY tired) that KISA and I stayed up until 1:30 this morning finishing our PLACE assessment for the SCSBC.  We should be hearing from them soon to schedule an appointment for our interview.  God is doing some awesome things in our lives, and I just can't WAIT to see what is next as we seek to not only "plant a church, but transform a city"!!

Pray for Rachel

I mentioned in my post on Monday that Baby Rachel was due for a doctor's visit, and that if she had not gained a sufficient amount of weight, she would be admitted to the hospital. Well, she had gained about 2.5 oz (she weighs 8.14 and is just now four months old) but it was not enough. She has been admitted to Palmetto Richland Children's Hospital. Donna is in Columbia with her, while Jason is working here in Florence and caring for their older daughter Samantha who is in school.
Please pray for this precious family. Baby Rachel has struggled since birth, and this is yet another milestone. I pray that this trip to the hospital, might in an odd way be an answer to prayer, in that it might provide the "break through" we've been hoping for. You can read all about Rachel's Story over at her Mommy's blog. Just please, please, please lift them up!!

Father in Heaven, your word tells us that you know the plans you have for us....plans to prosper us and not to harm us, plans to give us a hope and a future. Lord I know that you knew Baby Rachel even while she was being knit together in her mother's womb, and all the days ordained for her were written in your book before even one of them came to be. You are sovereign Lord, and we trust you. We know that this precious little one and her family are in your hands and under your care. Father I pray that you will give the doctors in Columbia the wisdom and the resources to be able to correctly diagnose and treat Rachel, in order to allow her to get on the path to recovery and full health. Jesus wrap your loving arms around her, touch her little body, and heal her. Please also comfort and keep her dear Mommy and Daddy and her sister, Samantha during this difficult time. Be their Source, be their Guide, be the Center of it all, and help them to deal with whatever lies ahead. You are an awesome God, and we give you all the praise and all the glory. In the most Wonderful Name of Jesus I pray, AMEN!

The Scoop: Vision

"Where there is no vision, the people perish..." (Proverbs 29:18).

I heard Pastor Steven Furtick quote this verse in a sermon several months ago, and it has resonated in my heart ever since.  Now that it is January, it's almost as if we've been given a fresh page on which to begin writing the next chapter of our lives. During this most famous time of year of refreshing our goals and desires for our lives, I thought I would share today about VISION.  "Chazown", to be exact.

Chazown (pronounced khaw-ZONE) from the Hebrew, meaning a dream, revelation, or vision.  You were born with your own Chazown.  Do you know what it is?

The above quote was taken from the back cover of the book CHAZOWN: A Different Way to See Your Life, by Craig Groeschel.  Craig is the Senior Pastor of LifeChurch.tv, and also authors Confessions of a Pastor, and Going all the Way (the latter of which will be the content for a post coming in February).  He says that it is his passion to "lead people to become fully devoted followers of Christ".  His book Chazown, is definitely a step in the right direction.

In this book, Craig shows us how the three circles of Core Values, Spiritual Gifts, and Past Experience converge to form your Chazown, or the vision God has for your life.  This is also where your passions are, and it forms the target "to help you know where to aim your life" (pg.39).  It is a journey of self-discovery as you read through each chapter and realize what each of these circles represents, and work through the meaning of each one in regards to your own individual life.  At the end of every chapter there is a place to journal your thoughts, and record your discoveries.

The next step is in the process is to actually determine where these sections or "circles" overlap, and name your Chazown. The great thing about this book is that it doesn't just guide you in realizing this, it gives you practical steps to take in acheiving your dream, your Chazown. For example, here is the title to Part 4 of the book.

Part 4.  THE FIVE SPOKES OF CHAZOWN, Where you need to succeed "small" so you can succeed "big".

In Part 4.  Groeschel takes us through each of the five spokes (Relationship with God, Relationships with People, Finances, Health and Fitness, and Work) and helps us determine which of these needs the most work in our lives.  Each of the five spokes must be in working order, so that you can move on in achieving your Chazown.  Again, each chapter has a section for journaling. 

The final section of the book helps you in developing accountability partners so that you can achieve your goals.  The bottom line is WE CANNOT DO IT ALONE!!! We were never meant to!!  One of the key thoughts for this section is " Accountability closes the gap between intentions and actions" (pg.208).  I don't know about you, but I have had enough with the "good intentions".  I want to step forward into action, to ACTUALLY REALIZE and LIVE OUT God's purpose and perfect plan for my life.

I know it shouldn't have been, but this book was a huge EPIPHANY for me!  I say that it shouldn't have been, because as a Christian, in the back of my mind I allready "knew" these things.  But the way that Craig Groeschel laid this out, helped me to understand that EVERYTHING in my life is there for a REASON.  God formed my personality, my gifts, and my experiences, all with ONE GOAL in mind, and that was how my life would best SERVE HIM!!!

Chris read the book before me, and every night he was reading me little excerpts that pertained to WHERE WE WERE RIGHT AT THAT VERY MOMENT.  It was TOTALLY a GOD THING for us to read this together, and through reading come to the realization that one of the dreams God has for us is to plant a church.  Let me just share to questions with you (from pg. 82), that I think will wrap up this post very nicely...

Question #1:  If money were no object and I could do anything I wanted for the rest of my life, what would I do?

Question #2:  Besides loving, caring for, and ministering to those most important to me, what is the number one thing that I believe God wants to accomplish through me?       

I will post my answers to these questions, and more next week.  In the meantime, you can check out Craig's Blog for excerpts, as he just posted several (five, actually) pertaining to New Year's and Chazown last week.

New Year's Chazown 1

New Year's Chazown 2

New Year's Chazown 3

New Year's Chazown 4

New Year's Chazown 5

I just can't begin to describe the impact this book has had on my life, and I strongly suggest that you get a copy of your own to see what I mean!  You can also check out this site for some great tools to guide you in the process!

So what's going on in your world today??  Is there a book you'd like to recommend,  something going on that you need encouragement or prayer for, or some specific way that God is just blowing your mind?? Please feel free to share it !!!Just sign Mr. Linky below so I will know to check out your blog...and, don't forget to leave a comment! ;-)

 

 

Monday Musings...

• Had a great weekend!! Nice to have everyone well, and happy, and all together at church on Sunday!!!
• Met some wonderful new friends on Friday night!  We had some great conversations about our journeys in church planting, and just generally got to know each other a little bit.  Even got a caramel latte....(unfortunately Jay, it was not from Starbucks, but Aroma Underground is pretty awesome, too!)
• Got to hang out with some of our good friends last night.  Even though it was a school night, and we were out pretty late, it was good to be with them again.  It's been a long time since we all hung out! Thanks for having us, Donna!! The chicken-sketti was AWESOME!
• Please continue to pray for Baby Rachel.  She goes to the doctor tomorrow, and if she has not gained any weight, she will be admitted to the hospital for a feeding tube to be inserted.  See Donna's blog (links above) for more details.
• Our pastor was back at church last night, and it was so good to see him! Hopefully Mrs. Nancy will be back soon, too!!  It just isn't the same without her...
• Jeffery did an AWESOME job preaching both services yesterday.  Last nights message was so good, you could feel the Spirit working and moving in hearts all around the sanctuary!
• Speaking of sanctuaries, only TWO MORE WEEKS until we CELEBRATE in our NEW ONE!!!
• Now back to lattes... I found this little meme at Bits and Pieces and thought I would give it a try... (it's pretty accurate, except for the very first one...I can definitely put up a fuss! ;-)...oh, and I do get "burned out" quite frequently...especially when the candle is burning at both ends, which is all too often!!)

What Your Latte Says About You

You are easygoing and pretty simple to please. You don't put up a fuss... ever. You can be quite silly at times, but you know when to buckle down and be serious. You have a good deal of energy, but you pace yourself. You never burn out too fast. You're addicted to caffeine. There's no denying it. You are responsible, mature, and truly an adult. You're occasionally playful, but you find it hard to be carefree. You are honest and genuine, but you are never tactless.

What Does Your Latte Say About You?

 

And just for good measure, I'll throw this one in there, too!!

 

Caramel Frappuccino

Creative and expressive, you tend to match your Frappuccino flavor to your mood. And a flavored syrup is always a must!

What Flavor Frappuccino Are You?

 

Have a great week, everybody!!!

Prayer Request

*****UPDATE!!*****
Mrs. Nancy came home yesterday, and was able to eat a grilled cheese (no butter) sandwich late yesterday afternoon. God is SO good!!! Thank y'all so much for praying, and please continue to remember her through the recovery process!!!

My pastor's wife had surgery in Charleston on Wednesday. She has been sick for several months, only being able to eat cream of wheat and jello without becoming violently ill. This surgery was supposed to alleviate the problem, and bring her back to good health again. Unfortunately she has not been doing so well, and the recovery process has proven to be much more difficult for her than anticipated.

Would you please lift her and my dear pastor up in prayer tonight? I know that God is at work, and He is IN CONTROL, but reading this from my pastor, nearly broke my heart!
The good news is that there are Angels Unaware, and God's hand is evident in their lives through this trial.

Thanks so much for remembering them in your prayers. I firmly believe the promise that "where two or more are gathered together in His name, He is there".

Dear Jesus,
I humbly approach your throne of grace right now on behalf of Pastor Howard and Mrs. Nancy. They have been through so many struggles lately...with a son's heartbreak, a mother's death, and now Mrs. Nancy's terrible illness. Please wrap your loving arms around them and comfort them during this difficult time. Lord, I know that you are in COMPLETE control in this situation, and you are working all things for good according to your purpose for their lives. Mrs. Nancy has been such a blessing to my life. She is so precious to our church and to her family. I ask that you heal her completely, and allow her recovery to be smooth and speedy. We will give you all the praise and all the glory for this. In your most precious name I pray, AMEN!!!

Friday Five

1.  I am learning SO MUCH in Unstoppable Force, by Erwin McManus.   I highly recommend this read if you want to be challenged "to see God’s vision for the mission and purpose of the church" (see website). Perhaps the most impacting quote from the entire book so far is, "We are not only called to be changed and to embrace change, but to be the catalysts of change".  WOW!!

2.  Another great book (as you have likely heard here before ) is Chazown by Craig Groeschel. The word "chazown" is Hebrew for "vision".  It is a wonderful read for this time of year with the making of New Year's resolutions, and aiming for new goals for our lives.  I am going to be featuring it in THE SCOOP this month (either this week, or next) so stay tuned!

3.  If you haven't already joined, LIVE WELL WEDNESDAYS is a wonderful resource!! Many of us have made resolutions to shed a few pounds this year, and this is a great way to stay accountable and receive encouragement.  Even if you don't need to lose weight, but you have other "health" concerns (spiritual, physical, emotional) you should stop by and check it out! ("Live Well" is hosted by Darlene Schacht of Christian Women Online).

4.  Since it is an NEW YEAR, and I have made a few "personal goals" for myself, I am so very thankful that God has given me great friends that serve as  REAL LIFE accountability partners along the journey.  Priscilla, Jen, and Paula...I love you!!  Thanks for being there to "spur me on"!!

5.  On a somewhat unrelated note, JACOB LOST HIS FIRST TOOTH!!  After I pulled it, we put it in a black velvet jewelry box (his own, Emilee's is red) to put under his pillow.  The only problem was, he had to keep "checking on it" and eventually lost it somewhere under his covers. :-(  So, I wrote a note to the tooth fairy explaining his misfortune, and not only did she have mercy, she must have had compassion, too...HE GOT 5 BUCKS!! He came running into the kitchen this morning shouting, "I'm rich!! I'm rich!!" TOO FUNNY!

Thankful Thursday - Happy New Year!

• I am thankful for NEW BEGINNINGS!!!
• I am thankful for CHANGE, and God's strength to do so!
• I am thankful for three beautiful children!
• I am thankful that even though two of my three kids are sick, it's nothing serious, and that because of our wonderful doctor, they will be feeling better soon!
• I am thankful for health insurance and co-pays on doctor visits and medicine!
• I am thankful for a wonderful husband, who is my rock, my dearest love, a wonderful father and provider, and my very best friend. (Not to mention he ROCKS at Guitar Hero!!! ;-))
• I am thankful for all of the wonderful things God is doing in our lives, and I can't wait to see what the next year holds!
• I am thankful for a church that is so loving and supportive. 
• I am thankful for many wonderful friends who spur me on in my faith.
• I am thankful for my "blogistas" and "blogothers" who have become such a precious part of my life through their words of encouragement and friendship. 
• Most especially, I am thankful for this sweet blogista, who had it in her heart to give me this award!!

"So here's to all the blogs that you've discovered that you can't possibly live without. They make you laugh, cry, think and feel connected every time you read a post. They give you a thrill as you see them loading into your browser and you get an equally satisfying thrill when you see that they have commented on your blog".

From Xandra: creator, The Daily Dose Award

 

I would like to give this award to Karen, Tammi,  Priscilla, Sue, Lynn, and Connie.  All of these precious girls, in their own unique ways,  bless me dearly. I thank God for each of them.  So come on girls, share the love!! (But don't forget to visit Xandra at Heart of Service to sign Mr. Linky!! ;-))

Happy Thankful Thursday everybody!!! Be sure to stop by Lynn's blog to let us know what you are thankful for today!  Oh yeah!! And I would love for each of you to join me each Tuesday for THE SCOOP...check it out, for more details!!

Time for a Change?

I haven't completely finished reading  Unstoppable Force (Erwin McManus) so I can't give you the full "Scoop" as of yet, but while I was reading the other night I came across and excerpt that I would like to share. (While this book mainly addresses the church, some of the principles can be applied to our personal lives). I think this particular passage is pertinent to the start of a New Year, and new beginnings.  I don't know about you, but each year I struggle with "resolutions".  I have a desire for a different result in certain areas of my life (e.g. bible study, weight loss, home management), but I have issues with CHANGE.  Let's face it.  Change is scary.  Change requires commitment.  Lack of change brings lack of results, making me feel like a failure, so why even bother?  I have to confess that this was my mentality before I read this...

• In Jeremiah 33:3 he (God) invites us into a journey of radical change: "Call to me and I will answer you, and tell you great and unsearchable things you do not know".  The prophets understood the inseparable nature of miracle and change.
• Habakkuk cried out, "Lord, I have heard of your fame.  I stand in awe of your deeds, Oh Lord.  Renew them in our day, in our time make them known... (Habakkuk 3:2). To cry out to God and ask Him to act is an invitation for God to bring radical change in our lives.
• God is continuously inviting us to believe that His future is better than any past we experienced with Him.  Can you believe that the glory of this present moment can be greater than the glory of your best memory?
• He (God) wants to shake heaven and earth and shake us loose from all that holds us back from entering His future. This future cannot be experienced without embracing and experiencing change.

Can I just get an AMEN???  I don't know about you, but I am THROUGH settling for the "status quo".  I am ready to BREAK OUT AND BREAK FREE of the chains that have been holding me back.  So here's to CHANGE...Lord, help me embrace it with reckless abandon so that I might begin to experience the future that you l have for my life!

***P.S.***

(I wrote the above portion of this post last night and saved it in Live Writer to post today.  Well...after my morning prayer and devotions, I just HAD to add the following...)

This morning I began reading Look Great Feel Great (Joyce Meyer), and came across another passage that echoes these thoughts. She talked about prisoners that get so used to their cells, that they are afraid to venture out of them, even when they have been freed...

"Like that prisoner, some people would rather endure the familiar tortures of diets, low energy, poor health, self-abuse, and exhaustion than taste freedom, because to be free them must learn to do things a completely different way."

Do you think it's possible that God is trying to get through this THICK SKULL OF MINE???

Joyce goes on to say that change is never easy, and that many people struggle with it.  The key is learning to rely on God, and His power, rather than our own willpower. 

"Soul searching, facing truth, and making necessary changes will be unbearable, so long as you try to "bear" it yourself.  The bonds are too strong, the powers arrayed against you too formidable.  Only God is strong enough to lift that burden.  If you turn things over to God, the Source of Divine Strength, you will finally have the power you need to break free.  Draw on the limitless power of the Holy Spirit, rather than your own limited power.  He will always lead you to victory and freedom.

But those who wait upon the Lord shall renew their strength; They shall mount up with wings as eagles, they shall run and not be weary, they shall walk and not faint. (Isaiah 40:31 NKJV)."

I don't know about you, but I'm READY TO FLY!!!  Here's to breaking free from the chains that bind us in 2008, and stepping forward in God's strength to CHANGE so that we can embrace the awesome, beautiful, abundant lives that God has planned for us!!!  So come on, dust off your wings and get ready to SOAR!!!

The Scoop!!

Back on November 6, I delivered a post called The Scoop, in which I promised to divulge more details of God's call on our lives at a later date.  Well...the time has come!

Starting today (the FIRST TUESDAY OF THE NEW YEAR!!) every Tuesday following here at Truly Captivating, will be called "THE SCOOP".  I hope to be sharing more of the details (as they are revealed to us) of where God is leading KISA and me, and the progress we are making towards a new church plant in Florence, SC.  While the church planting process will be driving a lot of my posts, I  also hope be including different things that God is teaching me in my daily walk with Him as a wife, mother, and child of the King.

I will also, from time to time, be sharing "book reviews" (using the term loosely) of books that we are reading that are greatly impacting our lives and challenging us to take our love for Jesus and commitment to Him to the next level.  A few of the books that I will be featuring soon will be

• Chazown: khaw-ZONE - A Different Way to See Your Life
• Going All the Way: Preparing for a Marriage That Goes the Distance
• In a Pit with a Lion on a Snowy Day: How to Survive and Thrive When Opportunity Roars
• An Unstoppable Force: Daring to Become the Church God Had in Mind

But for now...here's today's "scoop":

As most of you know, after Chris and I attended UNLEASH last March, we both surrendered to God's call to full-time service.  As the months have passed, we have put our house on the market, and begun trying to get our finances in order to get ready for this awesome journey.  In addition to these things, we have also come to realize the vision that God wants us to plant a church here in Florence.  Back in November, we met with Dino Senesi of the SCBC Church Multiplication Program, and started the ball rolling.  We have submitted our application, and are currently working to complete the Personal Assessment Surveys. We look forward to being interviewed sometime in January.  After that happens, we will begin working on a time line for a launch date, and building a core team.  We covet your prayers as we continue this process, and seek to be obedient to each and every step God provides along the way.

I am looking forward to sharing THE SCOOP on various topics with you each week, and I would love it if you would join me!! All you have to do is sign Mr. Linky, and share a post on your blog about the awesome things that God is doing in your life!! Or feel free to tell us about some awesome books, music, etc... that you would like to share.

Here's the code for the image so that you can use it in your own post.

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Until next week, I am praying for each of you to have a happy and prosperous New Year!! ;-)